Head lice facts
- Head lice are tiny, wingless insects that live and breed on the human scalp.
- Head lice have nothing to do with lack of cleanliness – anyone can get lice.
- They are a nuisance, but they do not cause illness.
- They are not a public health problem because they do not transmit disease.
Looking for head lice
- Live head lice:
- Are greyish, six-legged insects that are 2 mm – 4 mm in length (as adults)
- Can be difficult to see because they move quickly on the scalp
- Head lice eggs:
- Are very small – about half the size of a pinhead
- Can be whitish-grey, tan or yellow in colour
- Are glued to the hair shaft less than ½ inch away from the scalp
- Can take about 7-10 days to hatch
Note: Do not worry about eggs more than ½ inch from the scalp. They are empty shells of eggs that have hatched and are not a problem.
- Itchy scalp:
- Might indicate head lice, however it might not occur until a few weeks after infestation. Some individuals do not experience any symptoms.
Note: Diagnosis of head lice requires the presence of a living louse. A head lice product should only be used if live lice are found in the hair (Canadian Paediatric Society, March 2022).
Reinfestation
Reinfestation is when head lice keep coming back. It involves finding new live lice in the hair. Reinfestation is usually due to head-to-head contact with an untreated person.
- Try to find out why reinfestation is occurring, as it will decrease the need to retreat with head lice products.
- When reinfestation occurs, have parents consult with their pharmacist or doctor for the best treatment approach.
- Never use head lice killing products on a daily basis.
Strategies for parents
- Check your child’s head once a week, especially around the ears and the neck area.
- When looking for head lice, use a fine-toothed comb.
- It might help to braid long hair or put it into a ponytail.
- Be especially watchful after group activities, such as sleepovers and camps, where head-to-head contact could have occurred.
- Discourage the sharing of hairbrushes, combs, hats, and hair accessories.
Where to get help
If you have concerns about head lice: